Grand Bear Resort at Starved Rock - North Utica, Illinois

Lori W.

My family had a blast at this resort! Every employee we came in contact with was friendly but the most amazing person of all was Lesley Bermudez. I had an issue with my reservation at check-in, which was 100% my fault, and I was devastated. Lesley didn't have to help me but she saw my disappointment (not lying, i was ready to cry) and she went above and beyond to help me get a room on probably one of the busiest weeks of the year. She was so understanding, helpful and went all out to accommodate me and my family. We went from the biggest disaster ever to the best mini vacation possible. I'm so grateful for Lesley and hope you know what a wonderful, caring person she is. I really cannot say enough about her! Thank you so much! Keep up the good work!!

Sarah A.

We had an excellent time! It was much smaller than a great wolf lodge and had a few less activities, but it was very appropriately priced for their differences. We stayed in a 2 bedroom/2 bath villa with a full kitchen with 5 people for two nights and it was less than 1 night at their competitors for a regular hotel room. We went during spring break and I suspect the surrounding towns do most of their business during the summer as most we're not open. If you're easily overwhelmed by crowds at larger places I would highly recommend Grand Bear.

We also ate at the restaurant and all agreed it was pretty decent for a hotel restaurant. Not foodie level food, but everyone ate. We got coffee and ice cream from the lobby cafe, also decent.

The resort was a 3 minute drive to Starved rock state Park visitor center. We enjoyed a short hike there as well.

Isabel D.

My family of four (two adults and two kids under the age of two) stayed in one of the villas. The villa itself was MASSIVE and perfect for a family because of its size and layout. In general, everything felt clean enough, but worn out, run down, and old. Despite this, I would still recommend staying in a villa for the cost. I will note, bring your own food, coffee, and hygiene products! There is very little nearby for eating out and absolutely nothing in the way of soap for the showers.

The waterpark is okay. It is very very small, and run down. It's age is definitely beginning to show and it feels dirty, especially the changing rooms/bathrooms.

Lyndsey W.

We had a decent stay at Grand Bear Water Park Resort, but there were some drawbacks. The villa we stayed in needed a deep cleaning and some updates—especially the mattresses, which were very caved in and uncomfortable. We also noticed bugs around the windows and doors, and the dishes in the villa could use a thorough cleaning or replacement.

On the positive side, the staff was very friendly and welcoming. The water park was warm and perfect for younger kids, which was a big plus. The lobby areas were well-kept, and the outdoor playground was a nice and a convenient feature. The arcade was also surprisingly spacious, giving the kids plenty to do.

Overall, it's a good spot for families, but the accommodations could use some improvements.

Barbara M.

The resort itself and staff was nice, could had use some upgrades with the restaurants and food choices. The restaurant could had stayed opened later instead of closing early at 8 pm Monday evening, actually it should be open 24 hrs. I didn't like when calling down to front desk the phone continue to ring have you on hold for a brief second and then disconnect you, that was frustrating after 4 attempts trying to reach the front desk. Had to go there just to request more fresh towels in which was brought to the room later. The food is way over priced. Overall a good experience

John A. R.

Out of date, overpriced, no services. Sorely missing in so many details. Worn carpets, dark rooms (poor dated lighting). Cafè not open it’s posted hours. No coffee service in rooms. In the WHOLE place on a weekend - two coffee urns and go cups - no condiments, nothing.

No place to charge phones by bed. No clock in room. No cups, well, hidden in ice bin were 2 plastic cups.

Luggage carts are banged up falling apart.

Bed was nice. Pillows okay. Linens were worn, scratchy.

No bag for wet clothes or laundry. Odd for having a water park.

Toilet very low for aged or infirm guests.

Only one elevator, no label which floor is main (2nd).

Shower head small with poor spray. Owners care more about saving water than guest comfort.

The price does not translate to high level of service. Not worth the money. Better to stay at a hotel that is actually in the hospitality business.

Jodi T.

The Villa was older, but clean. Staff was great and helpful. My only complaint is the sign says no one under 16 in hot tub, and it was full of young kids the whole 2 days we were here. There are only certain days/times that wave pool and waterfall were on. That was very disappointing, especially with no signs posted. The one day we were in Waterpark there were 3 lifeguards and the wave pool and waterfall wasn't open. Jacks and the Treetop for eating was great and reasonably priced.

Alyssa C.

We had a wonderful stay at Grand Bear Resort at Starved Rock! From the moment we arrived, the service was warm and welcoming. The staff went above and beyond to make sure we had everything we needed, which made our stay even more enjoyable.

Breakfast was a highlight for us—everything was fresh, delicious, and a great way to start the day. If you're staying here, definitely make time for dinner at least once! The food was great, and it’s nice to have a relaxing meal after exploring the area.

It sounds like the resort has even more to offer in the summertime, so I’ll definitely be back with my family to experience everything! Highly recommend for a getaway near Starved Rock!